You have been through so much for someone so young. You have a heart for investment, which I admire. I personally am not brave enough to invest thousands of dollars into something that could potentially change my life.
You've come to the right platform to help your situation, as I can assure you that Steemit is no Ponzi scheme. With consistent production of quality content, you can go very far here --- emphasis on "consistent." This community doesn't promise that you will earn quick money that will get you to quit your job, or even that you will earn much money at all. But continue to play your cards right, and eventually you may not have to worry about finding a job at home!